NICOLAS ANELKA has been named player-manager of Indian Super League side Mumbai City.
The former Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea striker netted twice for Mumbai during the eight-team league’s debut season last year.
And he already has experience of doing both jobs after taking on a similar dual role in 2012 for Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua.
Anelka, 36, said: “I would like to say thank you to the Mumbai City staff for giving me the opportunity to coach the club.
“We are all very excited to start this new season. I’m personally very eager to take on this new role for the club and put a strong competitive team on the pitch.”
Mumbai finished a disappointing seventh in the inaugural ISL season.
But part-owner Ranbir Kapoor, a Bollywood actor, hopes Anelka’s new role will help change the club’s fortunes.
Kapoor said: “I’m thrilled to have Nicolas as our marquee player-manager.
“Last year, he impressed us all with his tactical knowledge and excellent motivational skills.
“It’s a role both parties have been discussing for a couple of months and it’s been a great start.
“We will provide Nicolas all the support required to try and win the league this year.”